The Cross River State Police Command has intensified investigations following the shocking discovery of eight corpses at a local embalmment hall in Isong Inyang Community, along the Calabar–Ikom Highway, on Friday.
The incident has raised serious concerns among residents and attracted widespread attention across the state.
Police sources confirmed that operatives from the Cross River Police Command were promptly mobilised to the scene after receiving credible intelligence around 11:56 a.m. on Friday.
Acting swiftly, the officers cordoned off the area and secured the premises to prevent public interference while a preliminary assessment was conducted.
Upon arrival, police officers reportedly discovered eight dry corpses stored in the hall.
The situation prompted immediate investigations, and one individual was apprehended at the location.
The suspect, identified as Mr. Sunday Ben Reuben, hails from Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Investigations indicate that he is a mortician affiliated with Enghaut Company Mortuary, based in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Speaking to newsmen in Calabar, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Sunday Akata, confirmed that the suspect was in custody and that a full-scale investigation had commenced.
“The suspect is currently under police detention, and we are conducting a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding this matter, including whether any laws were contravened,” ASP Akata said.
Residents of Isong Inyang Community expressed shock over the discovery, with many describing it as “unsettling” and “disturbing.”
Community leaders called on authorities to ensure that justice is served and urged members of the public to remain calm while the investigation is ongoing.
The Cross River Police Command reassured the public that all necessary procedures would be followed in handling the matter, including forensic examination of the corpses and verification of the mortuary’s operations.
According to ASP Akata, additional officers have been assigned to assist in the ongoing inquiry, and coordination with relevant state agencies has been intensified to ensure a thorough investigation.
Experts in mortuary operations have highlighted the legal and ethical obligations of morticians to handle human remains with dignity and adhere strictly to regulatory guidelines.
In this context, the role of the Cross River Police becomes crucial in determining whether the suspect violated any laws or professional standards.
The PPRO also urged members of the public to refrain from speculation or sharing unverified information on social media, warning that misinformation could hamper the ongoing investigations.
“We urge the public to stay calm and allow the police to carry out their duties professionally. Verified updates will be communicated as investigations progress,” ASP Akata emphasized.
Authorities have also confirmed that the Cross River Police are collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to trace the source of the corpses and verify all documentation related to the mortuary’s operations.
This multi-agency approach is intended to prevent future occurrences and safeguard public trust in mortuary services.
While the incident remains under investigation, Cross River Police have reassured residents that security measures across the state will be strengthened to prevent illegal activities related to mortuary operations.
Community vigilance and timely reporting of suspicious activities have been encouraged as critical components of ongoing preventive strategies.
The case has sparked public debate over the oversight of mortuaries in the region, with calls for stricter regulation and regular inspections by government authorities.
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